The People of Paper

The People of Paper by Salvador Plascencia is a First Edition novel published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt in 2006. This 245-page work explores the themes of lost love through a diverse cast of characters, including a disgruntled monk, a group of carnation pickers, and a woman made of paper. The narrative follows Federico de la Fe, a devoted husband and father, who, after being abandoned by his wife Merced, embarks on a new life in California with his daughter, Little Merced.

Readers will find a blend of fantasy and contemporary elements as the story unfolds within a community of flower pickers. Federico’s sadness deepens while Little Merced grapples with her own challenges, including a troubling addiction to limes. The novel also introduces an oppressive force that impacts the town, leading to a surprising revelation that propels the narrative toward its magical conclusion. This unique tale combines aspects of romance and the paranormal, making it a distinctive addition to the literary landscape.